Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Discovering this Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Soup was like finding a warm hug on a chilly evening. I remember the first time I made it, the aroma filled the kitchen and made all worries melt away.

One evening, when unexpected guests rang the doorbell, this soup saved the day with its quick prep and impressive flavors that felt like I'd been planning for ages.

Ingredients

• Cooked chicken breast: I always use shredded for quick absorption of flavors and moist texture
• Unsalted butter: The base of richness that helps all veggies soften perfectly
• Yellow onion: Diced finely so it melts into the broth without overpowering
• Carrots and celery: Peeled, sliced, and diced to add natural sweetness and crunch
• Garlic: Minced fresh cloves for that punch of aromatic depth
• Baby spinach: Roughly chopped, it wilts beautifully adding color and nutrients
• Low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the flavor balanced and lets the other ingredients shine
• Heavy cream: Adds luscious creaminess that brings everything together
• Potato gnocchi: Fresh or shelf-stable, they puff up like little pillows absorbing the broth
• Dried thyme and basil: These herbs introduce subtle herby undertones
• Ground black pepper and salt: To season perfectly, adjust to taste
• Fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese: Optional garnishes that add freshness and umami

Instructions

Get Everything Ready:

Melt butter over medium heat, then add diced onion, carrots, and celery, stirring until softened and aromatic.

Bring in the Garlic:

Stir in minced garlic and cook for just a minute until fragrant but not browned.

Soup Foundations:

Add shredded chicken, broth, and dried herbs. Season with salt and pepper, then bring the pot to a gentle boil filling the kitchen with savory scent.

Gnocchi Magic:

Drop gnocchi in and cook according to instructions, usually until they float like little clouds on the surface.

Finish with Cream and Spinach:

Lower the heat, stir in heavy cream and spinach. Simmer gently until creamy and the spinach wilts, turning the soup into a velvety dream.

Season to Perfection:

Taste and adjust seasonings if needed to get that perfect balance.

Serve with Love:

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan for the final touch of warmth.

Save

This soup became more than food when a friend recovering from illness told me it was the first meal that truly comforted and nourished her.

Keeping It Fresh

Always use fresh vegetables when you can; the freshness tangibly lifts the soup beyond just creamy flavors.

When You're Missing Something

If you don't have heavy cream, half-and-half is a lighter alternative but add it carefully to maintain texture.

Serving Ideas That Clicked

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty garlic bread or a light salad for a full comforting meal.

• Remember to serve it hot for the best experience
• If you like a spicy kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes does wonders
• Leftovers reheat wonderfully if stored properly in an airtight container

Save

Thanks for sharing this kitchen moment with me. May every bowl bring you as much joy as it brought me.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use leftover chicken for this soup?

Yes, shredded or diced cooked chicken works perfectly, making it a great way to use leftovers.

→ What type of gnocchi is best for this dish?

Both fresh and shelf-stable potato gnocchi work well; fresh gnocchi may yield a lighter texture.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free gnocchi and ensure the broth does not contain gluten to keep it safe for gluten-sensitive diets.

→ Is it possible to lighten the creamy broth?

Yes, substituting half-and-half for heavy cream reduces richness while maintaining creaminess.

→ What herbs best complement the flavors here?

Dried thyme and basil add aromatic depth, balancing the creaminess and savoriness of the soup.

→ Can I add a bit of heat to this dish?

A pinch of red pepper flakes added during cooking can introduce a gentle, warming spice.